🌟 Top Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

 

🏛️ 1. Visit the War Remnants Museum

  • A powerful and moving look at the Vietnam War, through Vietnamese eyes.

  • Features U.S. military vehicles, weapons, and thought-provoking photo exhibitions.

📍 Location: District 3
⏱️ Allow: 1–2 hours


🕳️ 2. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

  • An underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war.

  • You can crawl through sections of the tunnels and learn about guerilla tactics.

🚐 Day trip from HCMC (about 1.5 hours one-way)
🔫 Optional: Fire real weapons at a shooting range nearby


🏙️ 3. Check Out Landmark 81 or Bitexco Skydeck

  • Landmark 81: The tallest building in Vietnam, with an observation deck.

  • Bitexco Tower: Another great option for panoramic views of the city.

🍸 Tip: Grab a drink at a rooftop bar at sunset for the full experience.


🏛️ 4. Walk Around Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

  • French colonial architecture at its finest.

  • Great photo spots and a peaceful break from the chaos.

🕍 The cathedral is currently under renovation (check for updates).


5. Experience Vietnamese Coffee Culture

  • Try cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk), egg coffee, or coconut coffee.

  • Best spots: The Workshop, L’usine, Cong Caphe, or local street-side cafés.


🛍️ 6. Shop at Ben Thanh Market

  • A lively market for souvenirs, clothes, and food.

  • Can be touristy — don’t forget to bargain.


🍲 7. Eat Your Way Through Saigon

  • Try street food like:

    • Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich)

    • Phở (noodle soup)

    • Bún thịt nướng (vermicelli with grilled pork)

    • Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls)

  • Or join a food tour on motorbike or foot.


🕌 8. Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda

  • One of the most atmospheric temples in the city.

  • Filled with incense, intricate carvings, and spiritual symbolism.


🚶‍♀️ 9. Walk Along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

  • A wide pedestrian boulevard with light shows, street performers, and people-watching.

  • Great in the evening — the People’s Committee Building at one end is beautifully lit up.


🌆 10. Enjoy the Nightlife

  • District 1 (especially Bui Vien Street) is famous for:

    • Rooftop bars (e.g. SkyXX, Chill Sky Bar)

    • Clubs and live music venues

    • Cheap beers, street parties, and dance floors


🖼️ 11. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts

  • Housed in a gorgeous colonial-era building.

  • Features Vietnamese traditional, modern, and contemporary art.


🛥️ 12. Take a Saigon River Cruise

  • Offers a different perspective of the city.

  • Some options include dinner and live music.


Bonus Tips

  • Best time to visit: December to April (dry season).

  • Getting around: Use Grab app (motorbike or car) — fast and cheap.

  • Be cautious: Watch your bags and phones in busy areas — petty theft can happen.

ALAGON D’ANTIQUE HOTEL & SPA

303 Lý Tự Trọng, phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

ALAGON SAIGON HOTEL & SPA

291 Lý Tự Trọng, phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam

ALAGON CITY HOTEL & SPA

Alagon City Hotel & Spa, 56-58 Phạm Hồng Thái, Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam